Ashish Ranjan
Former Australian cricketer and head coach Justin Langer has emerged as the leading candidate to become the next head coach of IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants. The former cricketer is reportedly in line to replace Andy Flower, whose two-year contract with the franchise expired following the conclusion of the 2023 IPL season.
LSG management has contacted Justin Langer, who is presently a member of the commentary team for the ongoing Ashes series in England, according to the most recent report by Cricbuzz. While both parties remain tight-lipped about any development, it is understood that the Lucknow-based franchise is keen for Langer to succeed former head coach Andy Flower.
The former Australian cricketer guided the Aussies to their inaugural T20 World Cup title in 2021 and was also part of his side’s dominant 4-0 Ashes victory. Apart from success at the international level, Langer has experienced a tremendous time in Australia’s premier domestic competition, the Big Bash League, winning three titles with Perth Scorchers.
Under Flower, the Lucknow Super Giants qualified for the quarterfinals twice
Since his controversial resignation as Australia’s head coach in the wake of a dispute with the players and Cricket Australia, the 52-year-old has not pursued any coaching opportunities. According to the aforementioned source, the franchise and the former head coach are currently in negotiations, with an announcement expected within the next few days.
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Notably, the Sanjiv Goenka-owned franchise has qualified for the elimination rounds in both of Andy Flower’s two seasons at the helm, achieving respectable success. The players have been unable to rise to the occasion in crucial matches over the past two years, finishing in third place.
